01/27/2026
Why is a proper crumb so important in sourdough?
A proper crumb refers to the inside of a loaf of sourdough bread. The bubbles, the thin lacey pieces that are hidden behind a crunchy crust. I like to call them "butter holes" because they are so perfect at holding little pools of melted butter.
A proper crumb is so important because it often times signifies good fermentation. Proper fermentation is what makes sourdough bread easier to digest versus yeast breads.
A proper crumb can also affect the taste, texture, and overall experience of the bread.
Of course, there are so many things about sourdough bread that can affect the crumb, such as hydration of the dough, shaping, gluten development, etc.
A good crumb tells you that someone cared enough about that loaf of bread to make sure it is done right for you and your family to enjoy a true, slow fermented loaf of goodness.
Certain people and bakers have a preference of a tighter crumb with no big open holes, a wild open crumb, and everything in between. There is no wrong answer as long as it is true, well done sourdough ❤️
This beautiful loaf, and many others are available for pickup at 16th Street Roadside Stand - Post Falls Idaho . Stop on by, I almost always have bread stocked there 🙂
